Convertible article of furniture

ABSTRACT

An article of furniture includes a cabinet housing having an open side. A panel can be disposed relative to the cabinet housing and moveable between a first position and a second position spaced away from the cabinet housing. A linkage can be mounted to the panel, and at least two pads can be mounted to the linkage. Each of the at least two pads can have surface on which a person can sit or recline.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 62/482,829 filed Apr. 7, 2017, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Articles of furniture can be configured to convert between various configurations, examples of which include a sleeping configuration, such as a sofa or bed, and a sitting configuration such as a chair. Such convertible articles of furniture are often stored in a compact, space-saving configuration and expanded for use.

In certain environments such as patient-care settings in hospitals, recovery centers, nursing homes, and the like, a convertible article of furniture can allow for a support person to stay or sleep in the same room as a patient, while still providing for a small footprint and maximizing available room space when not in use.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

In one aspect, the disclosure relates to an article of furniture including a cabinet housing having an open side, a panel disposed relative to the cabinet housing and moveable between a first position wherein the panel at least partially closes the open side and a second position spaced away from the cabinet housing, a linkage having a first end fixed relative to the cabinet housing and a second end mounted to the panel, and at least two pads mounted to the linkage and each having a surface on which a person can sit or recline. The linkage is adapted to cause each surface to be disposed vertically within the cabinet housing when the panel is in the first position and to urge the surfaces to be disposed horizontally outside the cabinet housing as the panel is moved to the second position.

In another aspect, the disclosure relates to a convertible furniture system including a cabinet housing having at least one open side, a panel slidably disposed relative to the at least one open side and slidable between a retracted position at the at least one open side and an extended position distal from the at least one open side, an expandable mechanism mounted to the panel adapted to expand as the panel is caused to slide toward the extended position, and a plurality of pads mounted to the expandable mechanism. The pads in the plurality of pads are disposed vertically adjacent to each other within the cabinet housing when the panel is in the retracted position and wherein the expandable mechanism is configured to sequentially move the pads in the plurality of pads to a horizontal disposition adjacent to each other when the panel is moved toward the extended position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a convertible article of furniture in the form of a convertible cabinet according to various aspects described herein.

FIG. 2 is an isometric view of the convertible cabinet of FIG. 1 illustrating a linkage during a first expansion according to various aspects described herein.

FIG. 3 is an isometric view of the convertible cabinet of FIG. 1 illustrating a rotatable pad during additional expansion according to various aspects described herein.

FIG. 4 is an isometric view of the convertible cabinet of FIG. 1 in a sitting configuration according to various aspects described herein.

FIG. 5 is an isometric view of the convertible cabinet of FIG. 1 illustrating a linkage during yet additional expansion according to various aspects described herein.

FIG. 6 is an isometric view of the convertible cabinet of FIG. 1 in a fully-expanded state according to various aspects described herein.

FIG. 7 is an isometric view of an alternate convertible article of furniture in the form of a convertible cabinet according to various aspects described herein.

FIG. 8 illustrates top and side views of the convertible cabinet of FIG. 7 during expansion according to various aspects described herein.

FIG. 9 is an isometric view of an alternate convertible article of furniture in the form of a convertible cabinet according to various aspects described herein.

FIG. 10 illustrates top and side views of the convertible cabinet of FIG. 9 during expansion according to various aspects described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hospitalized patients can benefit from spouse, family or friends providing support and comfort. This may include conversation, assistance to the bathroom or supporting activities of daily living. These persons also provide an additional level of patient safety should there be a need to call for nursing intervention. In addition, the close proximity of a loved one, their ability to provide a comforting touch helps to enhance the patients feeling of well-being and contribute to an overall positive hospital experience.

Hospitals often try to accommodate the presence of the family and guests in the patient room by providing additional seating. In many cases, the spouse or close family member may spend extended periods of time with the patient, including overnight stays. To accommodate this situation, some hospitals provide additional specialized patient room furniture products that provide for short-term sleeping or overnight stays. This may include recliners, sleeper chairs and sleeper sofas. While these products provide the means for a guest to sit or sleep on, they are not ideally suited for use in close proximity to the patient in bed, as they may be difficult to move or have to compete for space at the bedside with a patient bedside cabinet. There has emerged a need to provide a comfortable guest sitting, resting or sleeping surface that can reside in close proximity to the patient bedside, yet be easily stored out of the way when a sitting, resting, or sleeping function is not needed.

Aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented in any environment wherein a convertible unit, such as a box, container, bin, or article of furniture is configured to move or expand relative to a supporting floor. For purposes of this description, such convertible unit will be generally referred to as an article of furniture or similar language; however embodiments of the disclosure can be equally suitable for any convertible unit in a residential, industrial, or medical setting.

As used herein, a right-handed system of axes will be used to describe orientation of an expandable article of furniture. The X-axis will refer to a horizontal centerline of the article of furniture, where +X (also referred to herein as “forward”) is in a direction of expansion and −X (also referred to herein as “backward”) is in a direction of contraction. The Y-axis will refer to a vertical direction, with +Y being upward and −Y being downward. The Z-axis will refer to a horizontal direction orthogonal to both X and Y.

Additionally, all directional references (e.g., radial, axial, proximal, distal, upper, lower, upward, downward, left, right, lateral, front, back, top, bottom, above, below, vertical, horizontal, clockwise, counterclockwise, upstream, downstream, aft, etc.) are only used for identification purposes to aid the reader's understanding of the present disclosure, and do not create limitations, particularly as to the position, orientation, or use of the present disclosure. Connection references (e.g., attached, coupled, connected, and joined) are to be construed broadly and can include intermediate members between a collection of elements and relative movement between elements unless otherwise indicated. As such, connection references do not necessarily infer that two elements are directly connected and in fixed relation to one another. Further, “a set” as used herein can include any number of the respectively described elements, including only one element. The exemplary drawings are for purposes of illustration only and the dimensions, positions, order and relative sizes reflected in the drawings attached hereto can vary.

FIG. 1 illustrates an article of furniture, illustrated as a convertible furniture system or convertible cabinet 2 according to various aspects described herein. The convertible cabinet 2 includes a cabinet housing 4 defining an interior space 6. As illustrated, the cabinet housing 4 is shown in phantom line to illustrate components internal to the cabinet housing 4. The cabinet housing 4 can also have at least one open side, illustrated as an open side 8 on a “front” of the cabinet housing 4 (e.g. in the +X direction). The cabinet housing 4 can further include a rear portion 9. In one non-limiting example, the “front” of the cabinet housing 4 can face away from a perimeter wall of a room when the rear portion 9 is proximate to a perimeter wall. A front panel 10 can be slidably disposed relative to the open side 8 of the cabinet housing 4 and movable or slidable between a retracted first position 11 (generally illustrated), wherein the front panel 10 is at, or at least partially closes, the open side 8, and an extended second position 12 (visible in FIG. 6), wherein the front panel 10 is spaced away from the cabinet housing 4 in the +X direction, and distal from the open side 8. It should be understood that any number of positions are contemplated for use for the front panel 10, and the exemplary first and second positions 11, 12 are for illustrative purposes. For example, any position wherein the front panel 10 is moved, slid, or otherwise extended at least partially away from the open side 8 (e.g. as shown in FIGS. 2-5) can be included as a second position 12.

The convertible cabinet 2 can include at least two pads disposed vertically adjacent each other within the cabinet housing 4 when the front panel 10 is in the retracted first position 11. It will be understood that “pad” as used herein can also refer to a cushion or cushion assembly, and can be upholstered or constructed with any variety of known materials suitable for a sitting or sleeping surface.

The at least two pads are illustrated as exemplary first pad 21, second pad 22, and third pad 23 each having a first surface 25 on which a person can sit or recline, and an opposing second surface 27 spaced opposite of the first surface 25. It should be understood that any desired number of pads can be utilized in the cabinet 2. In the illustrated example, the first pad 21 is most proximate the front panel 10, compared with the second and third pads 22, 23, and the third pad 23 is most proximate the rear portion 9 of the cabinet housing 4 compared with the first and second pads 21, 22. In this example, the second pad 22 is positioned between the first and third pads 21, 23. Additionally, each of the pads 21, 22, 23 can include a first pad end 26 and a second pad end 28 distal from the first pad end 26. It can be appreciated that in the first position 11, the first pad end 26 of each of the pads 21, 22, 23 is oriented at a vertically upper position (i.e. in the +Y direction) compared with the second pad end 28, and the linkage 30 is in a compressed, unexpanded, or compacted state.

The convertible cabinet 2 can further include an expandable mechanism mounted to the front panel 10 and adapted to expand, unfold, unfurrow, or the like, as the front panel 10 is moved, spaced, or slid away from the retracted first position 11. The expandable mechanism is illustrated as a structural frame or mechanical linkage 30. The linkage 30 can include a first linkage end 31 fixed relative to the cabinet housing 4 and a second linkage end 32 mounted to the front panel 10, distal from the first linkage end 31. It is contemplated that the first linkage end 31 can be mounted to the rear portion 9 of the cabinet housing 4, opposite the open side 8 as shown. It is also contemplated that the first linkage end 31 can be fixed such that no motion in the +X or −X directions occurs when the front panel 10 is moved away from the retracted first position 11.

The pads 21, 22, 23 can be mounted to the linkage 30. The linkage 30 can include a plurality of vertical supports 34 associated with a respective one of the respective pads 21, 22, 23. The plurality of vertical supports 34 can structurally support, directly or indirectly, the linkage 30 or the set of pads 21, 22, 23 against a horizontal surface, such as a floor. At least a subset of the vertical supports 34 can further include a corresponding set of feet 36 configured to allow traversal movement of the cabinet 2, pads 21, 22, 23, or vertical supports 34 relative to the floor. It is contemplated that the feet 36 can include casters, glides, or any other desired component configured to provide traversal movement. Thus, the vertical supports 34 include a movement-enabling mechanism (e.g. the feet 36) such that the vertical support 34 is adapted to move in a direction in-line with a movement of the front panel 10 (e.g. the +X direction) between the first position 11 and the second position 12.

Additionally, the linkage 30 is adapted to cause or urge each surface 25 of the pads 21, 22, 23 to be disposed vertically (i.e. parallel to the Y-axis) when the front panel 10 is in the first position 11, or while transitioning the front panel 10 toward the first position 11.

The linkage 30 can include a set of folding panels positioned between and linking adjacent vertical supports 34. In the illustrated example, a first set of panels 40 is disposed adjacent the front panel 10. Second, third, and fourth sets of panels 50, 60, 70 each can be disposed adjacent or surrounding the respective first, second, and third pads 21, 22, 23 between adjacent vertical supports 34.

When the front panel 10 is in its first position 11, as shown in FIG. 1, the sets of panels 40, 50, 60, 70 can be in a folded, retracted, or compressed state 38. As shown in FIGS. 2-6, as the front panel 10 is moved in the +X direction, any or all of the sets of panels 40, 50, 60, 70 can unfold, decompress, or expand to an expanded state 39. It should be understood that “expanded state” can include a partially-expanded or fully-expanded state.

FIG. 2 illustrates the convertible cabinet 2 in at least a partially extended second position 12 according to various aspects described herein, where the front panel 10 is pulled in the +X direction away from the cabinet housing 4. As shown, the at least partial extending of the front panel 10 away from the cabinet housing 4 the linkage 30 can expand via the unfolding of any or all of the sets of panels 40, 50, 60, 70, shown as the first set of panels 40. It is further contemplated that each of the sets of panels 40, 50, 60, 70 can comprise a paired set as shown, wherein the paired set is generally paralleled along the X-axis, or mirrored along an X-Y plane.

In one non-limiting example, at least a subset of the sets of panels 40, 50, 60, 70 define a seat 29 for receiving a second pad end 26 (e.g. a bottom end) of their respective pad when that pad is in a vertically disposed position 20, when the front panel 10 is in the retracted first position 11, or when the set of panels 40, 50, 60, 70 is in at least a partially-expanded state 39. The sets of panels 40, 50, 60, 70 can each be hingedly mounted to one another, the vertical supports 34, or a combination thereof, and disposed adjacent respective first, second, and third pads 21, 22, 23.

The sets of panels 40, 50, 60, 70 can all be hingedly mounted to one another and fold in an origami-like fashion to be flattened in the Y-Z plane when in the compressed state 38. Conversely, when in the expanded state 39, the sets of panels 40, 50, 60, 70 can fold, unfold, or otherwise expand in an origami-like fashion. It is contemplated that any or all of the set of folding panels 40, 50, 60, 70 can fold or unfold in an origami-like fashion. It will also be understood that the exemplary folding directions are not limited to those shown, and that any folding pattern or configuration may be used. For instance, the folding and unfolding motion, transition, or the like, of the linkage 30 could alternatively be described or understood as “accordion-like.”

The first set of panels 40 in the illustrated example includes a first panel 42, a second panel 44, and a V-folding third panel 46 between the first and second panels 42, 44, each hingedly mounted to one another. When the front panel 10 is moved, spaced, or slid away in the +X direction, as shown, the V-folding panel 46 of the first set of panels 40 can unfold in the Z-axis away from the X-axis, while the first and second panels 42, 44 of the first set of panels 40 can unfold toward a parallel position with the X-axis.

A pivoting member 80 can be coupled to the second surface 27 of each of the pads 21, 22, 23 and the corresponding vertical support 34 when the pads 21, 22, 23 are in an upright (i.e. vertically disposed) position 20, as can be seen with the first pad 21. The pivoting member 80 can provide for pivotal mounting of a pad 21, 22, 23 with the associated vertical support 34. Additionally, a set of guide members 82 can be coupled to the second surface 27 each of the pads 21, 22, 23 and configured to couple to a top portion 84 (FIG. 3) of a panel in the set of panels 40, 50, 60, 70. In this sense, when a pad 21, 22, 23 is rotated downward, as described herein, the guide members 82 can be configured or adapted to meet, mate, or otherwise receive the top portion 84 (FIG. 3) of the respective set of panels 40, 50, 60, 70. In this example, the mating of the guide members 82 with the top portion 84 can provide increased rigidity of the respective set of panels 40, 50, 60, 70 (e.g. the panels would not be able to fold back in the compressed state 38 due to the interaction with, for example, the guide member 82 channel), and can provide additional vertical support for weight placed on the first surface 25 of the pads. An example of the mating between the guide members 82 and the top portion 84 is shown in FIG. 4.

Referring now to FIG. 3, and in accordance with various aspects described herein, continued forward motion of the front panel 10 in the +X direction can allow the second set of panels 50 to unfold or expand in the X and Z directions. The second set of panels 50 is illustrated as including a V-folding first panel 52, a V-folding second panel 54, and a center panel 56 positioned therebetween. In one non-limiting example, the center panel 56 can at least partially define the seat 29.

During expansion, the unfolding of the V-folding panels 52, 54 and center panel 56 of the second set of panels 50 can urge the first pad 21 to pivot about the pivotal mounting (e.g. the pivoting member 80). More specifically, the first pad end 26 can rotate forward and downward, relative to the illustration (i.e. in the +X direction), while the second pad end 28 is drawn upward (e.g. in the +Y direction), thus moving, urging, rotating, or otherwise bringing the surface 25 toward a horizontally disposed position 24. The moving, urging, rotating, or the like, is generally illustrated by the movement arrow 14.

FIG. 4 illustrates the convertible cabinet 2 according to various aspects described herein with the front panel 10 moved further forward in the +X direction, compared to FIG. 3. In this position, the second set of panels 50 are in a fully-expanded state 39. In the fully-expanded state 39, the first pad 21 has been pivoted to a horizontally disposed position 24 wherein the first surface 25 is oriented in a horizontal position, and the second surface 27 is below the first surface 25 (i.e. spaced from the first surface 25 in the −Y direction). In this position, the first pad end 26 is more proximate to the front panel 10 compared with the second pad end 28. As shown, when in the fully expanded state 39, the surface 25 of the first pad 21 is facing vertically upward (i.e. in the +Y direction). The guide members 82 are further shown each coupled to the top portion 84 of the first set of panels 40, thereby providing rigidity to the panels 40 and preventing undesired folding, as described. In this manner, the second set of folding panels 50 are mounted with the first pad 21 such that the unfolding of the set of folding panels 50 between the compressed state 38 (FIG. 2) and the fully-expanded state 39 (FIG. 4) urges the first pad 21 to pivot about the pivotable mounting (e.g. pivoting member 80) from a vertically disposed position 20 (FIG. 2) to a horizontally disposed position 24 (FIG. 4).

It is contemplated that in the configuration illustrated in FIG. 4, the convertible cabinet 2 is in a “sitting configuration” or a “chair configuration,” wherein a person can sit on the surface 25 of the first pad 21 while the second and third pads 22, 23 are stowed within the cabinet housing 4, still residing in a vertical orientation. The first and second sets of panels 40, 50 are in a fully-expanded state 39 and can be at least partially held in place by the guide members 82 of the first pad 21. Thus, non-limiting aspects of the disclosure can be included wherein the first pad 21 is adapted to be pivotally urged to the horizontally disposed position 24 prior to the second pad 22 (or subsequent pad 22, 23) being pivotally urged from the vertically disposed position 20 to the horizontally disposed position 24. Stated another way, aspects of the disclosure can be included wherein a first pad 21 is fully rotated from the vertically disposed position 20 before any other pads 22, 23 are moved away from the rear portion 9 of the cabinet housing 4. Likewise, the second pad 22 can be fully rotated from the vertically disposed position 20 before the third pad 23 is moved away from the rear portion 9. While the extending movement is described, a reverse movement ordering is also contemplated, wherein, for example, the third pad 23 is fully rotated from the horizontally disposed position 24 to the vertically disposed position 20 prior to the first or second pads 21, 22 beginning a similar rotation.

Turning to FIG. 5, continued forward movement of the front panel 10 can cause the third and fourth sets of panels 60, 70 in the linkage 30 to expand according to various aspects described herein. Each of the third and fourth sets of panels 60, 70 can include respective V-folding first panels 62, 72, V-folding second panels 64, 74, and center panels 66, 76, which can be similarly adapted, configured, or the like, and fold similarly, with the V-folding first panel 52, V-folding second panel 54, and center panel 56 of the second set of panels 50. In the illustrated example, the first, second, and third sets of panels 40, 50, 60 are fully expanded. Further, the first and second pads 21, 22 are coplanar, having both been urged to a horizontal disposition by the respective second and third sets of panels 50, 60. The fourth set of panels 70 is partially expanded, and the unfolding of the panels 72, 74, 76 of the fourth set of panels 70 urges the third pad 23 to pivot about the pivotal mounting (e.g. the pivoting member 80 of FIG. 4) in a similar manner to that described above.

It is contemplated that the linkage 30 can be adapted to urge each of the pads 21, 22, 23 from a vertically disposed position 20 (FIG. 1) toward a horizontally disposed position 24 in a cascading movement. As used herein, “cascading movement” will refer to at least two pads rotating one-by-one in the same rotational direction (e.g. arrow 14 of FIG. 3) from a vertically disposed position 20 to a horizontally disposed position 24. For example, the linkage 30 can cause or urge the first pad end 26 of each of the pads 21, 22, 23 to move in the +X direction as the respective pad 21, 22, 23 moves to a horizontally disposed position 24. Put another way, the linkage 30 can urge each of the pads 21, 22, 23 to rotate counter-clockwise (in the perspective of FIGS. 1-5), one-by-one sequentially, as the front panel 10 is moved forward (in the +X direction). In this manner, the cascading movement includes a similarly oriented rotational movement of each of at least two pads about a pivotal mounting between the respective pad and the linkage 30.

FIG. 6 illustrates the convertible cabinet 2 in a fully expanded configuration according to various aspects described herein, where the convertible cabinet 2 is in the second position 12 (i.e. fully spaced away from the cabinet housing 4), as described herein. The unfolding of the third set of panels 70 can urge the third pad 23 to fully pivot to a horizontal position. With the front panel 10 in the second position 12, the pads 21, 22, 23 are all coplanar. In one non-limiting example, the fully expanded second position 12 can enable or allow a user to sleep on a coplanar set of surfaces 25 of the pads 21, 22, 23. It can thus be appreciated that the first pad end 26 of each pad 21, 22, 23 is oriented in a horizontal position more proximate to the front panel 10, compared with the second pad end 26 of the respective pad 21, 22, 23.

As the front panel 10 is spaced or moved from the first position 11 to the second position 12, each of the pads 21, 22, 23 can be adapted to be pivotally urged between the vertically disposed position 20 to the horizontally disposed position 24. It can be further appreciated that any or all of the sets of folding panels 40, 50, 60, 70 can fold between a compressed state 38 and an expanded state 39 in a direction in-line with a movement of the front panel 10 between the first position 11 and the second position 12 (i.e. in the +X direction). In this manner, the linkage 30 is adapted to cause each surface 25 of the pads 21, 22, 23 to be disposed vertically within the cabinet housing 4 when the front panel 10 is in the first position 11, and to urge the surfaces 25 to be disposed horizontally outside the cabinet housing 4 as the front panel 10 is moved to the second position 12. Put another way, the expandable mechanism (e.g. linkage 30) of the convertible furniture system is configured to sequentially move the pads 21, 22, 23 to a horizontal disposition adjacent to each other when the front panel 10 is moved toward the extended second position 12.

While not shown, it will be understood that the front panel 10 can be moved in the −X direction from the second position 12 back toward the first position 11. In doing so, the linkage 30 can fold such that the panels 40, 50, 60, 70 can return to a compressed state 38, and the pads 21, 22, 23 can rotate in reverse-sequence (that is, the third pad 23, then the second pad 22, then the first pad 21) back to a vertically disposed position 20 as illustrated in FIG. 1.

Turning now to FIG. 7, another convertible cabinet 102 is illustrated according to various aspects described herein. The convertible cabinet 102 is similar to the convertible cabinet 2; therefore, like parts will be described with like numerals increased by 100, with it being understood that the description of the like parts of the cabinet 2 applies to the cabinet 102, unless otherwise noted.

The cabinet 102 includes a cabinet housing 104 with at least one open side, illustrated as an open side 108 which is selectively closed or opened by a front panel 110. One difference is that the front panel 110 includes a top portion 115 hingedly coupled to the panel 110 and rotatable between horizontal and vertical positions. While the top portion 115 is shown in a horizontal configuration, when the front panel 110 is fully retracted at the open side 108, the top portion 115 can be rotated into a vertical position and at least partially or fully close the open side 108 of the cabinet housing 104.

An expandable linkage 130 is coupled to the front panel 110 and cabinet housing 104. First, second, and third pads 121, 122, 123 are pivotally mounted to the linkage 130. In the illustrated example, the first pad 121 (most proximate to the front panel 110) is pivotally mounted to the front panel 110. More specifically, the first pad 121 can be mounted to the top portion 115 of the front panel 110 such that rotation of the top portion 115 can cause or urge simultaneous rotation of the first pad 121.

The linkage 130 can further include vertical supports 134 pivotally mounted to the second and third pads. One difference is that the linkage 130 can include at least one telescoping vertical support 134. Such a telescoping vertical support 134 can include a horizontal telescoping portion, illustrated as an inner telescoping member 135 and an outer telescoping member 137, configured to expand when the front panel 110 is moved in the +X direction. In the illustrated example, feet 136 can be coupled to the outer telescoping member 137 to provide for slidable movement of the vertical supports 134 with respect to a floor surface (not shown).

The linkage 130 can further include at least one set of folding panels positioned between adjacent vertical supports 134, illustrated as first and second sets of panels 140, 150 pivotally mounted to the respective first and second pads 121, 122. The first and second sets of panels 140, 150 are each coupled or mounted relative to the respective outer telescoping member 137, as shown. In addition, it is contemplated that a third set of panels can be pivotally mounted to the third pad 123 and has been omitted for clarity. It should be understood that any number of pads, or any number of sets of folding panels, can be utilized in the convertible cabinet 102. It is contemplated that the pads 121, 122, 123 can undergo similar cascading rotational motion to that described in FIGS. 1-6.

Furthermore, the sets of panels 140, 150 can fold or unfold to an expanded state 139 as a result of sliding the front panel 110 along the X-axis toward or away from the cabinet housing 104. More specifically, each of the sets of panels 140, 150 can include a respective first panel 141, 151 hingedly connected to a respective second panel 143, 153. The first panel 141 (of the first set of panels 140) and the first panel 151 (of the second set of panels 150) are pivotally mounted to respective vertical supports 134 for rotation about the Y-axis. Optionally, a secondary link 145 can couple to the first panel 141, 151 to further guide its rotation about the Y-axis as the cabinet 102 is opened or the front panel 110 is moved away from the open side 108.

The second panel 143, 153 of the respective first and second sets of panels 140, 150 is pivotally mounted at to respective pads 121, 122 for rotation about the X-axis, and is also pivotally mounted to the first panel 141, 151. In this manner the second panel 143, 153 can be caused to rotate about multiple axes.

FIG. 8 illustrates the convertible cabinet 102 in a fully-closed top and side view, as well as a partially-opened top and side view according to various aspects described herein. For clarity, only a portion of the linkage 130 and the first set of panels 140 is illustrated, and the pads 121, 122, 123 are omitted. Additionally, the front panel 110 does not include the top portion 115, for ease of understanding. It should be understood that the omitted portion of the linkage 130 can function in a manner similar to that shown in the illustrated example.

As shown in the closed top view 116 and the closed side view 117, the front panel 110 is disposed adjacent the cabinet housing 104. The first set of panels 140 is flattened in the Y-Z plane, where the first panel 141 is forward of the second panel 143. The linkage 130 is contained within the cabinet housing 104.

As the front panel 110 is moved away from the cabinet housing 104 (e.g. as shown by arrow 113), and as shown in the open top view 118 and the open side view 119, the first panel 141 rotates about the Y-axis while the second panel 143 has rotated about the first panel 141 such that it partially extends along the X-axis. In this example, the movement of the first and second panels 141, 143 is shown generally by arrows 191. Thus the panels 141, 143 are no longer flattened in the Y-Z plane.

In the open side view 119, it can more clearly be seen that the panels 141, 143 have rotated at least partially in the −X direction in the process of unfolding. When the inner telescoping member 135 is fully extended from the outer telescoping member 137, it is contemplated that the panels 141, 143 can be coplanar, though this need not be the case.

Turning to FIG. 9, another convertible cabinet 202 is illustrated according to various aspects described herein. The convertible cabinet 202 is similar to the convertible cabinet 2, 102; therefore, like parts will be described with like numerals increased by 200, with it being understood that the description of the like parts of the cabinet 2, 102 applies to the cabinet 202, unless otherwise noted.

The cabinet 202 includes a cabinet housing 204 with at least one open side, illustrated as an open side 208 which is selectively closed or opened by a front panel 210. The front panel 210 includes a top portion 215 hingedly coupled to the panel 210 and rotatable between horizontal and vertical positions.

An expandable linkage 230 is coupled to the front panel 210 and cabinet housing 204. First, second, and third pads 221, 222, 223 are pivotally mounted to the linkage 230. In the illustrated example, the first pad 221 (most proximate to the front panel 210) is pivotally mounted to a top portion 215 of the front panel 210 such that rotation of the top portion 215 can cause or urge simultaneous rotation of the first pad 221.

The linkage 230 can further include vertical supports 234 pivotally mounted to the second and third pads. The linkage 230 can include at least one telescoping vertical support 234, illustrated with inner and outer telescoping members 235, 237 that are configured to expand when the front panel 210 is moved in the +X direction. In the illustrated example, feet 236 can be coupled to the outer telescoping member 237 to provide for slidable movement of the vertical supports 134 with respect to a floor surface (not shown).

The linkage 230 can further include at least one set of folding panels positioned between adjacent vertical supports 234, illustrated as first and second sets of panels 240, 250 pivotally mounted to the respective first and second pads 221, 222. The first and second sets of panels 240, 250 are each coupled or mounted to the respective outer telescoping member 237 as shown.

The sets of panels 240, 250 can fold or unfold between a compressed state 238 and an expanded state 239 as a result of sliding the front panel 210 along the X-axis toward or away from the cabinet housing 204. One difference is that the sets of panels 240, 250 can each include a respective V-folding first panel 241, 251 pivotally connected via a first pivot connection 286 to a respective second panel 243, 253. The V-folding first panels 241, 251 can be mounted to their corresponding vertical supports 234 and outer telescoping member 237, wherein expansion of the inner telescoping member 235 out of the outer telescoping member 237 can cause the V-folding first panels 241, 251 to hingedly expand. The second panels 243, 253 can also be pivotally connected to the respective first and second pads 221, 222 via a second pivot connection 288 as shown.

Another difference is that the third pad 223 can be connected to the linkage 230 via a V-folding frame 290, wherein movement of an inner telescoping member 235 out of an outer telescoping member 237 proximate the frame 290 (e.g. from forward movement of the front panel 210) can cause the V-folding frame 290 to expand in the +X direction, thus urging the third pad 223 to rotate or pivot from a vertically disposed position 220 to a horizontally disposed position 224. It will be understood that the pads 221, 222, 223 can undergo similar cascading rotational motion to that described in FIGS. 1-6.

FIG. 10 illustrates the convertible cabinet 202 in a fully-closed top and side view, as well as a partially-opened top and side view according to various aspects described herein. For clarity, only a portion of the linkage 230 and the first set of panels 240 is illustrated. Additionally, the front panel 210 does not include the top portion 115, for ease of understanding. It should be understood that the un-illustrated portion of the linkage 230 can function in a manner similar to that shown in the illustrated example.

As shown in the closed top view 216, the front panel 210 is disposed adjacent the cabinet housing 204. The first set of panels 240 is flattened in the Y-Z plane, where the V-folding first panel 241 is forward of the second panel 243. The linkage 230 is contained within the cabinet housing 204. The closed side view 217 further illustrates the flattened V-folding first panel 241 and flattened second panel 243. It is contemplated that when the cabinet 202 is fully closed, the inner telescoping member 235 can be at least partially or fully within the outer telescoping member 237.

As the front panel 210 is moved away from the cabinet housing 204 (e.g. as shown by the arrow 213), and as shown in the open top view 218 and the open side view 219, the V-folding first panel 241 can be seen in a partially-folded configuration. The inner telescoping member 235 is pulled at least partially forward, out of the outer telescoping member 237 as shown.

In the open side view 219, it can be seen that the panels 241, 243 have rotated at least partially in the process of unfolding as shown by the arrow 292. When the inner telescoping member 235 is fully extended from the outer telescoping member 237 (as illustrated in FIG. 9), it is contemplated that the V-folding first panel 141 can be planar, though this need not be the case. The open side view further illustrates that the second panel 243 has rotated about the Z-axis along arrow 293 (showing movement from closed position shown in phantom 243P) as the front panel 210 has been moved forward (in the +X-direction). During expansion, the V-folding first panel 241 also rotates along arrow 294 as shown.

Though not illustrated, other examples of the present disclosure are contemplated for use in the article of furniture as described herein. In one non-limiting example, when the convertible article of furniture is fully extended (e.g. in a sleeping configuration), a concealment curtain can be linked to a separate folding mechanism that automatically extends forward within the enclosure, thereby covering the interior space that the cushion assemblies previously occupied and blocking access to the enclosure's interior mechanisms. In another non-limiting example, when the cushion assemblies are fully extended as a horizontal surface, cushions on opposite ends can be independently adjusted to a selected angle to provide head support for reading, viewing television or interacting with a bed-ridden patient. In still another example, at least one of the pads or cushion assemblies can include a pivoting cushion surface to provide a similar headrest function.

It is further contemplated that the convertible article of furniture can include a braking mechanism that prevents the enclosure from skidding, sliding, or otherwise moving with respect to the floor during conversion of the article of furniture, e.g. during formation of a sitting or sleeping configuration. Such a braking mechanism could include locking caster wheels, or a locking mechanism within the telescoping members, in non-limiting examples.

In yet another example, the article of furniture as described herein can include an adjustable guard that can be extended from a rear portion of the enclosure to contact an adjoining building wall, thus controlling the distance between the enclosure and the wall to prevent possible damage to the wall or any devices (e.g. medical devices) that may be coupled to the wall. The article of furniture can also include provisions for powering or recharging electronic devices (e.g. mobile devices, reading lamps, night lights, or alarm clocks), such as by electrical outlets, USB outlets, inductive chargers, and the like, or combinations thereof. The article of furniture may also be configured to couple to a side table, such as a nightstand with drawers, a storage bin with shelving, or a desktop or work surface area, in non-limiting examples.

Aspects of the present disclosure provide for a variety of benefits. It can be appreciated that the connected, folding pads or cushion assemblies can be stored vertically within the convertible article of furniture (being a freestanding mobile enclosure), and can be extended out of the enclosure to provide a horizontal sitting or sleeping surface. In an example where the convertible article of furniture is utilized in a patient care setting, family or guests can maintain proximity and provide comfort to a bedridden patient while minimizing a furniture footprint when not in use. When each cushion assembly is oriented from a collapsed vertical position to an extended horizontal position, the cushion assembly can be supported by multiple, connected folding panels forming a structural assembly that provides structural support for a sitting or sleeping adult. Furthermore, when the pads or cushions are disposed horizontally, the folding panels that provide structural support also can form a continuous visual or protective barrier for the interior frame components within the furniture housing, which can eliminate pinch points or contact with the folding mechanism, thereby improving safety. It can be further appreciated that the guide members described herein can prevent the collapse of an individual pad or cushion segment, and further contribute to the structural rigidity of each cushion assembly.

To the extent not already described, the different features and structures of the various embodiments may be used in combination with each other as desired. That one feature may not be illustrated in all of the embodiments is not meant to be construed that it may not be included, but is done for brevity of description. Thus, the various features of the different embodiments may be mixed and matched as desired to form new embodiments, whether or not the new embodiments are expressly described. All combinations or permutations of features described herein are covered by this disclosure.

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An article of furniture comprising: a cabinet housing having an open side; a panel disposed relative to the cabinet housing and moveable between a first position wherein the panel at least partially closes the open side and a second position spaced away from the cabinet housing; a linkage having a first end fixed relative to the cabinet housing and a second end mounted to the panel; and at least two pads mounted to the linkage and each having a surface on which a person can sit or recline; wherein the linkage is adapted to cause each surface to be disposed vertically within the cabinet when the panel is in the first position and to urge the surfaces to be disposed horizontally outside the cabinet housing as the panel is moved to the second position.
 2. The article of furniture of claim 1 wherein the linkage includes a vertical support associated with each of the respective at least two pads.
 3. The article of furniture of claim 2 wherein the vertical support includes a movement-enabling mechanism such that the vertical support is adapted to move in a direction in-line with a movement of the panel between the first position and the second position.
 4. The article of furniture of claim 2 wherein each of the at least two pads are pivotally mounted with the associated vertical support.
 5. The article of furniture of claim 4 wherein each of the at least two pads further includes a first pad end and a second pad end, distal from the first pad end, and wherein the first pad end is oriented at a vertically upper position, compared with the second pad end, when the panel is in the first position, and wherein the first pad end is oriented in a horizontal position more proximate to the panel, compared with the second pad end, when the panel is in the second position.
 6. The article of furniture of claim 4 wherein each of the at least two pads is adapted to be pivotally urged between a vertically disposed position to a horizontally disposed position as the panel is spaced from the first position to the second position.
 7. The article of furniture of claim 6 wherein the at least two pads includes a first pad most proximate to the panel and a second pad, and wherein first pad is adapted to be pivotally urged to the horizontally disposed position prior to the second pad being pivotally urged from the vertically disposed position to the horizontally disposed position.
 8. The article of furniture of claim 4 wherein the linkage further includes a set of folding panels positioned between adjacent vertical supports.
 9. The article of furniture of claim 8 wherein the set of folding panels fold between a compressed state and an expanded state, in a direction in-line with a movement of the panel between the first position and the second position.
 10. The article of furniture of claim 9 wherein the set of folding panels are hingedly mounted to each other.
 11. The article of furniture of claim 9 wherein the set of folding panels fold in an origami-like fashion.
 12. The article of furniture of claim 9 wherein the set of folding panels are mounted with one of the at least two pads such that the folding of the set of folding panels between the compressed state and the expanded state urges the one of the at least two pads to pivot about the pivotable mounting from a vertically disposed position to a horizontally disposed position.
 13. The article of furniture of claim 12 wherein the set of folding panels arranged in the compressed state defines a seat for receiving a bottom end of the one of the at least two pads in the vertically disposed position.
 14. The article of furniture of claim 1 wherein the at least two pads are coplanar when the panel is in a second position fully spaced away from the cabinet housing.
 15. The article of furniture of claim 1 wherein the one of the at least two pads most proximate to the panel is pivotally mounted to a portion of the panel.
 16. The article of furniture of claim 1 wherein the linkage is adapted to urge each of the at least two pads from a vertically disposed position to a horizontally disposed position in the same cascading movement.
 17. The article of furniture of claim 16 wherein the cascading movement includes a similarly oriented rotational movement of each of the at least two pads about a pivotal mounting between the respective pad and the linkage.
 18. The article of furniture of claim 1 wherein the linkage includes a telescoping vertical support.
 19. The article of furniture of claim 1 wherein the linkage is mounted to a rear portion of the cabinet housing, opposite the open side.
 20. A convertible furniture system comprising: a cabinet housing having at least one open side; a panel slidably disposed relative to the at least one open side and slidable between a retracted position at the at least one open side and an extended position distal from the at least one open side; an expandable mechanism mounted to the panel adapted to expand as the panel is caused to slide toward the extended position; and a plurality of pads mounted to the expandable mechanism; wherein the pads in the plurality of pads are disposed vertically adjacent to each other within the cabinet housing when the panel is in the retracted position and wherein the expandable mechanism is configured to sequentially move the pads in the plurality of pads to a horizontal disposition adjacent to each other when the panel is moved toward the extended position. 